No. 9 Clemson’s struggles carried into week four at NC State, when the Tigers were upset 27-21 in double overtime.
The game came down to the final play, where on a 4th & five, Clemson quarterback DJ Uiagalelei lobbed a pass to the end zone that wide receiver Justyn Ross was unable to get his hands on.
Clemson capped off their first overtime drive with Uiagalelei hitting Ross for a nine-yard touchdown pass, the duo’s second scoring connection of the game. NC State scored off a touchdown pass from Devin Leary to Thayer Thomas. The Wolfpack would then score on the second play of their second overtime drive with Leary hitting Devin Carter for a 22-yard score, also their second touchdown connection.
Clemson struck first in regulation with a 32-yard touchdown pass from Uiagalelei to Ross. NC State would answer, with a nine-yard touchdown pass from Leary to Emeka Emezie. Both touchdowns came in the first quarter.
NC State would score next in the third quarter with Leary hitting Carter for a 12-yard touchdown. Clemson followed in the fourth quarter with a five-yard touchdown run from Will Shipley.
It was a very ugly game for Clemson. The Tigers were only able to generate 214 total yards of offense, committed 13 penalties and lost key players, such as linebacker James Skalski, defensive tackle Bryan Bresee and running back Will Shipley, to injury.
Uiagalelei finished 12/26 for 111 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. He is still yet to eclipse 200 passing yards in a game this season. Ross had his biggest game since returning from spinal surgery. He finished with eight catches for 77 yards and two touchdowns.
Linebacker Baylon Spector had a very impactful game with 19 total tackles and one pass deflection. Safeties Andrew Mukuba and R.J. Mickens both finished with 10 total tackles each.
Clemson’s offensive struggles have been very prominent this season, and it was certainly a factor in Clemson’s loss. The defense has been able to hold their own most of the game but being dominated 41:48 to 18:12 in time of possession was a big blow to the defense, especially late in the game.
“Gotta own it,” said Head Coach Dabo Swinney when asked about what his message was to the team after the game. “We need to just get back to work on Monday. Continue to learn, continue to grow, continue to fight.”
Next up for Clemson is Boston College at home on Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. The Tigers will look to regroup and find a way to turn their season around.
